In the early 1980s, the Department of Statistics started compiling statistics of divorces and marriages in Singapore. These statistics, which are released every year, reveal trends such as the average age of the bride and groom, divorce rates and inter-ethnic unions. They are important as they influence government policies on population and marriage.

Based on the data, teen marriages make up only a small proportion of marriages in Singapore.

In the span of 10 years, 2001 to 2011, that low figure has dipped. Also, during the same period, people in Singapore are getting married at a later age.

The Straits Times conducted a poll of 56 young people aged 13 to 19 on their take on teen marriage. This is what they said:

• Almost all respondents - 54 out of 56 - would not consider getting married in their teens.

Reasons cited: A lack of maturity and financial stability, and the desire to fulfil personal goals before tying the knot.

• What would change their minds: Teen pregnancy.

If faced with that situation, 16 per cent would "very likely" get hitched; 20 per cent said marriage would be "quite likely", and 34 per cent, "somewhat likely".

• More than half of those polled (55 per cent) felt the ages of 26 to 30 years were ideal for marriage. Forty-one per cent felt the ideal age bracket was 21 to 25.

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